Italian

The GCSE Course

Able linguists have the option of preparing for a fast-track GCSE in Italian which can be completed over one or two years. We follow the textbook 'Amici' which offers a detailed introduction to the language and take the AQA examination. Pupils are expected to engage in a significant amount of independent study to supplement their learning.

In the Michaelmas term we focus on reading and comprehension skills and from the Lent term onwards we place more emphasis on speaking and writing the language.  There are two written and two oral assessments throughout the course, with a final reading and listening examination in the summer.

The course is divided into four sections which aim to enable pupils to discuss and write about a range of personal and social issues:

Lifestyle:

• Healthy and unhealthy lifestyles and their consequences
• Relationships with family and friends
• Future plans regarding marriage / partnership
• Social issues and Equality

Leisure:

• Free time activities
• Shoopping, money, fashion and trends
• Advantages and disadvantages of new technology
• Holiday plans, preferences and experiences

Home and Environment:

• Describing your home and local area
• Special occasions celebrated in the home
• Current problems facing the planet
• Being environmentally friendly

Work and Education:

• School and future plans
• Pressures and problems
• Looking for and getting a job
• Advantages and disadvantages of different jobs